Van Buren County residents and visitors will soon have increased opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, thanks to funding approved in the state House.

Rep. Aric Nesbitt, R-Lawton, today voted for House Bill 4078, which authorizes land improvements at two different sites.

The South Haven Area Recreation Authority will receive $50,000 toward development of beach access at Pilgrim Haven, including a paved walk, signs, lighting and a parking lot. The upgrades will create barrier-free access to Lake Michigan. Additionally, the Department of Natural Resources will receive $750,000 to acquire trail land from Paw Paw to Hartford.

“Southwest Michigan is incredibly blessed with natural splendors, and projects like these help to improve our quality of life as we spend time outdoors with family and friends,” Nesbitt said. “Both of these projects have the support of local communities and I know residents will be excited to see them finally take place.”